Some refer to apple pie, hotdogs and baseball as symbols of the American way.

These things, however, have nothing on the Bristol Fourth of July parade, the ultimate symbol of American pride to many Rhode Islanders. After all, this annual parade has been a Rhode Island staple of American independence since 1785, before America had even entered its teenage years.

Dick Devault, event chairman, said this year’s festivities — much like the tradition — will have no specific theme. As usual, parade celebrants and marchers will keep it simple: a good-old-fashioned celebration of patriotism and independence.

This reminder of America’s independence will be even more prominent when United States Air Force Major Joshua Wild, a Warwick native, will be leading the military.

Wild is the executive officer of the U.S. Air Force Air Squadron.

Devault said because of sequestration, Wild’s unit will not be able to conduct a military flyover. However, there should still be a few flyovers, weather permitting. Devault said the North American T-6/SUN/Harvard is expected to make an appearance.

“The T-6, one of the most popular warbird aircraft today, is an outstanding single engine trainer that has been used by air forces of over 30 countries,” according to a description sent by Devault. “It is an excellent aircraft for anyone transitioning to a high horsepower tailwheel fighter during the 1940s and 1950s.”

To keep it family friendly, Devault said there should be more clowns and kids’ activities along the parade route.

Bristol Town Administrator Louis Cirillo will serve as the grand marshal. Devault can’t say enough about Cirillo, who is the epitome of Rhode Island and Bristol pride.

“His family owns a house on the Fourth of July parade route and has entertained scores of out-of-town guests, every year for our annual parade, since the 1950s,” Devault wrote on the event website.

“He was first elected in public office in November 1982 ... He has read nearly everything that has been written about Bristol and has presented speaking programs about our Town’s history for over thirty years.”

Devault said the patriotic exercises begin at 8:30 a.m., with speakers before the parade march begins around 10:30 a.m on Route 114 at the corner of Chestnut and Hope streets.

Although the historical parade is on July 4, celebrations began on June 21.

Concert Chairman Ray Lavey said there will be seven or eight new bands for the concert series, which kicked off last Friday. He extolled the music variety prevalent among the acts.

He said the concerts are not a rock show, a military show or a country show.